As reported, Ukraine wants to abide by the grain agreement despite Russia’s withdrawal and continue to use the Black Sea corridor for export in the future. But Moscow warns against this in clear terms: security guarantees for Ukrainian exports have been lifted. “It is a zone directly adjacent to the combat zone in which certain risks arise without appropriate security guarantees.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke of a “temporarily dangerous zone” on Tuesday. Because Ukraine uses these waters for military activities. Peskov was responding to suggestions that Turkey could protect cargo ships carrying Ukrainian grain. At the same time, the spokesman rejected international criticism of Russia’s withdrawal from the grain export agreement. Russia is fulfilling its obligations and will continue to supply grain to poor countries. Moreover, Russia is already in contact with African countries.
Solidarity corridor across Europe
Russia let the agreement expire on Monday because it does not see its own demands for smoother exports of fertilizers and agricultural products come true. The decision provoked international criticism – also because Ukrainian grain is important for supplying other countries with food.
Even during the war, Ukraine reportedly remained the largest wheat supplier to the World Food Program (WFP) in 2022, supplying more than half of the WFP’s global wheat purchases. If the agreement expires, pressure on food prices could increase, which will mainly affect people in poorer countries. Part of the relief will in any case be provided by river, rail and road trade routes specially developed by the EU and Ukraine.
The unloved imports from Ukraine
However, grain farmers in Western Europe are concerned about more wheat imports from Ukraine. There have already been protests in Poland and other EU countries. Temporary import bans were the result. After difficult negotiations, the countries involved were able to agree on an exception rule with the European Commission, which will initially apply until mid-September. In Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seeds from Ukraine can no longer be traded freely until September 15. Due to the market distortions and falling prices due to the sharp increase in agricultural exports from the war-torn country, the countries mentioned should now also benefit more from EU agricultural funds.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
